If you've been watching the news about the 2014 CES show in Las Vegas Nevada, you know that in addition to 4K televisions, 3D printing is one of the most exciting new technologies being highlighted at the show.

The earliest use of 3D printing was in rapid prototyping (RP) during the late 1980s and early 1990s. But 3D printed parts were fragile and machines very expensive.

Today, the cost of machines has decreased significantly. A machine that cost $20,000 a few years ago, can now be purchased for about $1,000.